“𝘿𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙫𝙤𝙩𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙛𝙡𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙨 𝙙𝙚𝙗𝙖𝙩𝙚, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙪𝙣𝙖𝙣𝙞𝙢𝙤𝙪𝙨 𝙖𝙘𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙨𝙞𝙜𝙣𝙖𝙡𝙨 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙤𝙡𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙙”
Following months of community input and deliberation, the Reading School Committee voted 5–1 on Saturday, April 4th, to appoint Dr. Henry Turner as the district’s next superintendent of schools, pending successful contract negotiations.
Committee member Carla Nazzaro cast the sole dissenting vote, citing concerns raised during discussion about readiness for the superintendent role and community trust. After the roll‑call vote, the committee approved a separate motion by acclamation, which passed unanimously, signaling collective agreement to move forward with contract negotiations and to support the transition regardless of individual positions taken during the appointment vote.
This is the most important decision that we make as a committee. And I know I speak for my colleagues when we say when I say that we highly value all of that input.” said Chair Shawn Brandt.
The decision came during a rare Saturday meeting focused almost entirely on the superintendent search and featured extensive remarks from each committee member outlining both support for Turner’s candidacy and reservations about the process.
Search Process and Context
The search began in mid‑December after Superintendent Dr. Thomas Milaschewski announced he would step down at the end of the school year for a new position in Florida. The committee pursued an accelerated timeline intended to ensure leadership continuity heading into the 2026–27 school year.
The process included:
- Community forums to gather feedback on district priorities
- An 18‑member screening committee representing administrators, teachers, parents, and municipal leadership
- 24 applicants, surpassing the number received in the district’s previous superintendent search
- 11 candidates interviewed, with four finalists advanced
Three finalists later withdrew for personal or timing‑related reasons, leaving Dr. Turner as the final candidate. Committee members emphasized that the district was not required to make an appointment and had viable interim options available had the vote failed.
Vote Breakdown
- Roll‑call vote to appoint Dr. Turner:5–1
- No vote: Carla Nazzaro
- Subsequent motion by acclamation: Unanimous
Committee leadership noted that the acclamation vote reflected procedural unity and a shared commitment to move forward in the district’s best interest.
Rationale for the Appointment
Dr. Turner currently serves as principal of Newton North High School. Committee members cited his student‑centered leadership, collaborative approach, and measurable academic outcomes. During his tenure:
- Participation in advanced coursework increased from about 65% to 87%
- College placement rates rose from 79% to 84%
- Restorative practices, schedule redesigns, and student wellness supports were expanded
Members also highlighted consistent feedback from Newton administrators, staff, students, and parents describing Turner as calm, accessible, and focused on building consensus. Several noted that Turner applied only to Reading, viewing that decision as evidence of commitment to the district rather than a lateral career move.
Concerns Raised During Deliberations
Nazzaro’s no vote reflected broader concerns raised during public discussion, including:
- Turner’s lack of prior superintendent or central‑office experience
- Limited exposure to district‑level budgeting and collective bargaining
- Questions about managing political and community pressures
Some members and residents also raised concerns about Turner’s earlier public statements on national social issues. Supporters said Turner acknowledged those experiences as learning moments and emphasized that his more recent leadership reflects a measured, contemplative approach.
Next Steps
With both votes complete, the committee entered into executive session to negotiate Turner’s contract. If negotiations are successful, Turner is expected to begin a structured transition period focused on listening, relationship‑building, and learning district operations.
While the initial vote reflected differing opinions, committee members emphasized that the unanimous acclamation vote underscored a shared responsibility to support Reading Public Schools and ensure leadership stability moving forward.
